California Schools Face Immediate Crisis as Trump Administration Withholds $811 Million in Federal Funds
California Schools Face Immediate Crisis as Trump Administration Withholds $811 Million in Federal Funds
California school districts are in immediate crisis after the Trump Administration today refused to release nearly $811 million in congressionally appropriated federal grant money, sending schools nationwide scrambling. The funds, which were expected by July 1st and had already been budgeted for the current year, are critical for after-school programs, academic enrichment, English-learner services, teacher professional development, and migrant education.
The sudden withholding of funds means some districts will be forced to cancel essential summer learning activities and teacher training events as early as this week. The California Association of School Business Officials warns of immediate and long-lasting harm, stating that districts will be forced to reduce staff, delay programs, and cancel services, directly impacting students who need support the most.
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond announced California is exploring legal action against the Trump administration, citing previous lawsuits over funding disputes. The withheld money, part of a nationwide total of $6.2 billion for K-12 schools, impacts programs vital for student success and parent support, including the 21st Century Community Learning Center grants.
Education leaders and advocates have condemned the administration’s actions, calling them an illegal overreach of executive power designed to enact budget priorities without congressional approval. They urge an immediate release of funds to prevent further disruption to student learning and essential services as schools prepare to reopen in late July and August.
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